MACAU —-– After undergoing a series of intensive training sessions from Dompet Dhuafa, the Dai Ambassadors departed for their respective countries of assignment. However, fate had other plans for Muhammad Nur. The long-awaited Australian visa did not arrive, even though the departure date was just two days away. He had to give up his dream of preaching in Sydney. Allah SWT had prepared a different stage for him: Macau, the “Las Vegas” of Asia. A small, glittering country in the midst of the hustle and bustle of East Asia.
“I was lost in thought, imagining my colleagues flying to Australia. Meanwhile, I was still waiting for clarity in Indonesia. But when offered Hong Kong–Macau, I replied without hesitation, ‘I’m ready, Insha’Allah.’ The belief that Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala would ease the way for sincere intentions continued to strengthen my steps,” Muhammad Nur recalled when contacted by the Dompet Dhuafa team on Sunday (February 22, 2026).
Journey to the Land That Never Sleeps
Ramadan had just begun when the plane carrying Muhammad Nur landed at Macau International Airport. Unlike Australia, which he imagined was entering summer, Macau welcomed him with the cool air typical of East Asia. Upon arrival at the airport, three middle-aged women with friendly smiles were waiting for him. They were Mrs. Ida, Mrs. Anisah, and Mrs. Anna. All three were representatives of Dompet Dhuafa Macau who were also tough Indonesian migrant workers (BMI).
“Upon arrival at the airport, I was immediately greeted warmly by the three of them. They quickly helped me carry my luggage and queue for a taxi. I felt a little awkward because they were much older, even closer in age to my older siblings and parents. But they insisted on serving me upon my arrival. This was my first truly memorable experience. In the coldness of a foreign land, the warmth of brotherhood felt so real,” added Muhammad Nur.
About 30 minutes later, he arrived at his accommodation at Rua Do Padre Antonio Roliz 1 And B, Macau. Throughout the journey, his eyes were treated to contrasting views: futuristic skyscrapers mixed with ancient Portuguese-style buildings. Magnificent resorts lined up with names that made him murmur; Wynn Palace, Grand Lisboa, MGM Macau.
“Masha Allah, this is where I will preach. In the midst of this never-sleeping city, there must be a space in the soul that longs for the nourishment of faith,” he said.
The Warmth of Migrant Workers Amidst the Glitz of Macau
The arrival of Dai Ambassador Dompet Dhuafa was welcomed by dozens of Indonesian migrant workers who are members of the Muslim community in Macau. The atmosphere was very warm, like a large family that had been separated for a long time. These strong BMI mothers are the main pillars of da’wah in a foreign land. They are part of 13 organizations that are members of the 2026 Macau Ramadan Pondok program, namely: MATIM, HALIMAH, HALAQOH, IRSYAD, IMWU, PEDULI, YPW, NARJU SAFAAT, ISNI, USM, SAGARA, CHARLES FAMILY, and JAMAAH MASJID. (To be continued)
Text and Photos: Muhammad Nur (Dai Ambassador of Dompet Dhuafa 2026 assigned to Macau)
Editor: Taufan YN